Rugby in shock as Lealiifano diagnosed with Leukaemia

The Australian Rugby Community is in shock after it was revealed that one of it’s top players Christian Lealiffano has been hospitalised with Leukaemia.

Brumbies star fly half Lealiffano has played 117 Super Rugby for the Canberra side and played 19 times for Australia.

The Brumbies have issued a statement saying that following a brief illness 28-year-old Lealiifano is in hospital after being diagnosed with Leukaemia

Brumbies interim Chief Executive, Phil Thomson, said it was too early at this stage to comment much further.

“At the moment it’s just a matter of ensuring Christian receives the best care and support he can at this time,” Thomson said.

“He is one of the most respected players within this group and this news has come as a huge shock to all of our players, coaches and staff.

“Everyone knows that Christian is an amazing young man, an important member of this team and of the Canberra community.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian and his family at this time.”

Leukaemia is a cancer which starts in blood-forming tissue, usually the bone marrow. It leads to the over-production of abnormal white blood cells, the part of the immune system which defends the body against infection. Blood cells are formed in the bone marrow, the spongy tissue found inside the bones.

The Brumbies ask that the Lealiifano family’s privacy is respected and no more comments will be made at this time.